Registration, Payment and Financial Aid Updates. Learn more
Over the last few years, there has been an unprecedented rise in package delivery. As such, workplace injuries in the warehouse, packaging, and shipping industries have also increased. While workplace injuries are not new, OSHA has introduced a National Emphasis Program (NEP) initiative to raise awareness of these issues and encourage regular training. As part of this initiative, a recent news release from OSHA stated the following:
“Under this three-year emphasis program, OSHA will conduct comprehensive safety inspections focused on hazards related to powered industrial vehicle operations, material handling and storage, walking and working surfaces, means of egress, and fire protection.”
Harper College offers four free warehouse safety classes to small businesses (under 250 employees) or unemployed individuals seeking to return to the workforce. Harper offers these classes free of charge through September 30, 2024, thanks to the Susan Harwood grant from OSHA awarded to the college.
The benefits of this training include the health and safety of workers through accident prevention strategies, safe lifting and proper movement of materials and increased safety in storage areas as companies follow established protocols. Proper stacking, keeping areas clear of trip hazards and establishing guidelines and policies for pedestrian/worker traffic in areas with powered industrial vehicles - such as forklifts or large material handling machinery - will be essential to include in safety training efforts.
Another critical area to include in safety training is the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders in the workplace. Some common injuries are pulled muscles, ligaments and tendons, i.e., back pain, tendinitis, shoulder problems, etc. These injuries occur from repetitive movements, overexertion, improper lifting or moving in awkward positions. Learning safe and ergonomically correct task performance methods helps workers protect themselves and decreases injury rates.
Ultimately, most employers aim to establish a safety culture that becomes a foundational principle of all operations.
